UV / Protective Filterequipment
A clear filter mainly used today to protect the front element — its UV effect is negligible on digital.
On film, UV filters cut haze; digital sensors barely care. Now they're mostly physical protection for the front element against scratches, dust, and salt spray. The trade-off: a cheap filter can add flare and slightly soften images, so if you use one, buy good glass — or skip it and rely on the lens hood for protection.
Use this when
- Beach, dust, kids: a quality protective filter
- Max image quality: skip it, use the hood
Common mistake: Stacking a cheap filter on an expensive lens and adding flare.